The Climatron, 60 Years Young, Reopens at the Garden

photo by Cassidy Moody / Missouri Botanical Garden

One of the most familiar landmarks at the Missouri Botanical Garden is reopening following a three-month closure.

The Climatron, the domed conservatory that is home to the Garden’s tropical rainforest setting, will reopen to the public beginning tomorrow.

Waterfall at the Climatron photo by Claire Cohen / Missouri Botanical Garden

The Climatron is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Hailed as the first geodesic dome to be used as a conservatory, opened its doors in 1960, showcasing the Garden’s collection of orchids, palms and other tropical plants. When it made its public debut, the facility boasted a state-of-the-art climate control system. The name, Climatron, comes from the Greek words “climate” and “machine.”

The Missouri Botanical Garden reopened in mid-June, but the Cliimatron stayed close to allow staff to safely care for the plant collection and perform maintenance on the facility.

photo by Elizabeth Arnold / Missouri Botanical Garden

Beginning tomorrow, the Climatron will be open Thursday through Sunday, with a designated one-way path through the conservatory for visitors. The building be closed for the remainder of the week so that the staff can continue to care for the plants in a safe manner.

Other Garden areas reopening to the public this week include the Boxwood Garden, Carver Garden, Chinese Garden, Ottoman Garden, Rock Garden, and the Herb Garden. Just like the Climatron, these spaces will be closed two days a week for maintenance, but will be open to visitors Thursday to Sunday. 

The Missouri Botanical Garden is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday to Sunday. Last entry is at 4 p.m. The Garden remains closed on Mondays.  

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